from קָצַר; severed, i.e. harvest (as reaped), the crop, the time, the reaper, or figuratively; also a limb (of a tree, or simply foliage); bough, branch, harvest (man).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâtsîyr**, represented by `{{H7105}}`, primarily refers to **harvest**. It appears 54 times across 49 unique verses. Derived from a root meaning "to sever," its meaning extends from the act of reaping to the crop itself, the season of gathering, and the reaper. Figuratively, it can also describe a bough or branch of a tree, or serve as a powerful metaphor for divine action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{H7105}}` is central to Israel's agricultural and legal life. It marks a foundational season in God's created order, promised to continue as long as the earth remains [[Genesis 8:22]]. Laws concerning the **harvest** emphasized social responsibility, commanding that the corners of the field and any forgotten sheaves be left for the poor, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow ([[Leviticus 23:22]]; [[Deuteronomy 24:19]]). The word also appears in a non-agricultural context, referring to a **bough** or **branch** of a tree, as seen in Job's hope that a cut-down tree might bud and bring forth boughs [[Job 14:9]]. In Isaiah, it is also used for the **harvestman** who gathers the corn [[Isaiah 17:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the full scope of the agricultural cycle and its significance:
* `{{H7114}}` **qâtsar** (to dock off, i.e. curtail; especially to harvest): This is the primitive root from which **qâtsîyr** is derived, signifying the action of reaping or cutting down the crop [[Deuteronomy 24:19]].
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed; figuratively, fruit, plant, sowing-time, posterity): This represents the beginning of the agricultural cycle, often contrasted with the harvest that completes it [[Genesis 8:22]].
* `{{H1061}}` **bikkûwr** (the first-fruits of the crop): This term refers to the initial and best part of the harvest, which was to be offered to God, as seen in the "feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours" [[Exodus 23:16]].
* `{{H4038}}` **maggâl** (a sickle): This is the specific tool used for the harvest, directly associated with the act of reaping in the time of harvest [[Jeremiah 50:16]].
* `{{H7019}}` **qayits** (harvest (as the crop), whether the product (grain or fruit) or the (dry) season; summer): Often used in parallel with harvest, this word denotes the summer season when the harvest is gathered [[Proverbs 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7105}}` is profound, often employed figuratively to describe God's judgment and blessing.
* **Divine Providence:** The reliability of the **harvest** is a sign of God's covenant faithfulness. He provides the former and latter rain and reserves the "appointed weeks of the harvest" [[Jeremiah 5:24]]. Its failure is a sign of judgment [[Amos 4:7]].
* **Symbol of Joy:** A successful **harvest** is a primary symbol of joy and blessing. Isaiah compares the joy of the redeemed nation to the "joy in harvest" [[Isaiah 9:3]].
* **Metaphor for Judgment:** The **harvest** is frequently used as a metaphor for the day of reckoning. Joel commands, "Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe," signifying that the time for judgment on wickedness has come [[Joel 3:13]]. Similarly, Babylon's destruction is described as the "time of her harvest" [[Jeremiah 51:33]].
* **Time of Spiritual Apathy:** The phrase "The **harvest** is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved" captures a sense of finality and lost opportunity for deliverance [[Jeremiah 8:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7105}}` moves far beyond a simple agricultural term. It is woven into the fabric of Israel's calendar, laws, and prophetic imagery. It represents the reliable rhythm of God's provision, a time for joyous celebration, and a stark symbol of final judgment. From a physical bough on a tree to the eschatological reaping of nations, **qâtsîyr** illustrates a concept fundamental to the relationship between God, His creation, and His people.
TRV